King of Kentucky single-barrel bourbon is making waves again! Celebrating its eighth year, this 17-year-old bourbon stands out as one of the oldest on the market. Originally founded in 1881, it was bought by Brown-Forman in 1936 but went off the shelves in 1968. After a long hiatus, it returned in 2018 with annual releases.
Brown-Forman’s Master Distiller Emeritus, Chris Morris, describes it as “the ultimate expression of American whiskey.” This year, only 5,000 bottles will be released, crafted from just 63 barrels. For comparison, the Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, another coveted choice, offers over 14,000 bottles annually, highlighting King of Kentucky’s rarity.
The production process is meticulous. Each barrel-strength bourbon is selected by Morris himself, ensuring the highest quality. Every bottle features important details—proof, age, and barrel location—so collectors know exactly what they’re getting. This year’s bottles come from either the fourth floor of Warehouse J or the first floor of Warehouse G at Brown-Forman Distillery.
Interesting fact: where a bourbon is stored significantly affects its flavor and maturity. Upper floors in warehouses tend to be warmer and lead to faster aging, while lower floors keep it cooler. Therefore, distillers often mix ages or keep barrels in one spot to perfect the flavor profile.
The price for King of Kentucky is set at $399, but on the secondary market, it can soar close to $2,000! If you get a chance to nab a bottle, it’s definitely worth it. So, whether you’re a whiskey lover or a collector, this bourbon is certainly one to watch.
For more details, check out the original article on Southern Living.
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Brown-Forman, Chris Morris, Kentucky
